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In Vietnam, Tet is far more than a date on the calendar. It is the most important and meaningful holiday of the year, a time when families reunite and traditions come alive. At the heart of this celebration are traditional custom that connects Vietnamese generations together. Besides, Tet games are what make the festival vibrant and full of excitement, that also need a recognition as Tet’s highlights.
Before screens became part of daily life, Tet felt even more vibrant. The air was filled with children’s laughter, the cheerful sounds of busy markets, and joyful reunions between relatives who only saw each other once a year. Tet games were not simply ways to pass the time. Through these games, grandparents shared stories, parents relived their childhood, and children learned their first lessons about teamwork, friendship, and belonging. Let’s take a look of several insanely fun and cultural Tet games with me.
Top 10 Traditional Tet Games in Vietnam’s Lunar New Year Celebration
1. Square Capturing
Traditional Tet games in Vietnam
Whenever I see small stones arranged neatly on the ground, I instantly think of ‘Ô ăn quan’, also known as Mandarin Square Capturing. Among Tet games, this is one of the oldest and most intellectually stimulating, even though it looks simple at first glance.
As children, we drew the board directly on the ground with chalk. A rectangular grid with five small squares on each side and two larger semicircular squares at both ends that we proudly called the mandarin squares. We would sit under the shade of a tree or in a quiet schoolyard corner and begin our silent but intense battle of thinking.
Two players take turns moving small stones in a counterclockwise direction, carefully calculating each move. The goal is to capture as many pieces as possible through strategy and smart counting. I remember pretending not to care while secretly planning two or three steps ahead. Looking back, I realize this was one of the first Tet games that taught me patience and strategic thinking.
2. Blindfolded Catching
Traditional Tet games in Vietnam
Blindfolded Catching, or ‘Bịt mắt bắt dê,’ is pure chaos in the most joyful way. Among popular Tet games, it always brings the loudest laughter.
One child is blindfolded and becomes the goat catcher. The others scatter within a marked area, trying not to be tagged. The catcher must rely entirely on hearing and instinct. Every small footstep or sudden giggle can reveal someone’s position. I still remember how my heart pounded when it was my turn to wear the blindfold. The world suddenly felt confusing and uncertain. Meanwhile, my friends would cheer, tease, and sometimes even mislead me. This game is not only about catching someone. It is about sharing excitement and building unforgettable memories together.
3. Rong Ran Len May
Traditional Tet games in Vietnam
‘Rồng rắn lên mây’ or the Dragon Snake Game, was one of the most exciting group games of my childhood. It is loud and full of teamwork, such a wonderful simple game Vietnamese children play when they’re still kids in the kindergarten or move to the primary school.
Children line up and hold onto the waist of the person in front to form a long dragon snake. One child plays the doctor and stands guard. The dragon snake approaches while singing a traditional chant. At the right moment, the doctor tries to catch the tail while the head of the dragon protects it.
The feeling of holding tightly to my friend’s shirt and running as fast as possible without breaking the line is unforgettable. If one person lets go, the entire dragon collapses. In the past, when Vietnam had very few toys due to economic hardship after years of war, these creative Tet games required nothing but teamwork and imagination. That simplicity is exactly why they remain timeless.
4. Tug of War
Traditional Tet games in Vietnam
Tug of War, or ‘Kéo co’, is more than just a test of physical strength. It represents community spirit and solidarity. It is commonly played during Tet and village festivals, where the entire community gathers to watch and cheer.
Two teams stand on opposite ends of a rope, pulling with all their strength to drag the other side across a marked line. The crowd shouts encouragement, drums echo loudly, and dust rises from the ground as both teams struggle for victory. In 2015, Tug of War was recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, shared by Vietnam and several other Asian countries. This recognition feels truly deserved because among all Tet games, Keo co most clearly reflects the spirit of togetherness that defines community life.
5. Kite Flying
Traditional Tet games in Vietnam
Kite flying is one of the most peaceful Tet games. In wide countryside fields, colorful kites fill the spring sky during the holiday. I remember running across the field, holding tightly to the string, feeling the wind pull against my hands. Watching the kite rise higher brought a strange sense of freedom. It felt as if my dreams were floating above me.
Among all Tet games, kite flying connects people not only with each other but also with nature. It captures the rare slow moments of spring when life feels calm and full of hope.
6. Hopscotch
Traditional Tet games in Vietnam
‘Nhảy lò cò’, or Hopscotch, is simple yet unforgettable. Even though it exists worldwide, it holds a special place among Tet games in Vietnam. We used chalk to draw numbered squares on the pavement. Each player tossed a small stone and hopped on one foot to retrieve it without touching the lines. It demanded balance and concentration.
What stays with me most is the sound of laughter under the warm afternoon sun. These small Tet games created a childhood free from digital distractions and full of genuine connection.
7. Bamboo Jacks
Traditional Tet games in Vietnam
‘Banh Dua’, known as Bamboo Jacks, is one of the more delicate Tet games that requires precision and quick reflexes. Using ten small bamboo sticks and a small ball, players toss the ball upward and quickly pick up sticks in increasing levels of difficulty before catching the ball again. Every movement matters.
I admired how skillful some girls were at this game. Their hands moved smoothly and confidently. Although it looks quiet compared to other Tet games, the excitement of completing a full round is surprisingly intense.
8. Traditional Wrestling
Traditional Tet games in Vietnam
Let’s follow up the list with a traditional game category for male. Vietnamese wrestling, known as ‘Đấu vật’, has deep historical roots. It dates back to ancient times and is often associated with national heroes and village festivals.
Competitors face each other in a circular sand arena. The goal is to unbalance or pin the opponent. Despite the intensity, wrestlers bow before and after the match, showing respect for tradition and for each other. While less common in major cities today, this remains one of the most exciting Tet games in many northern villages, where young men proudly demonstrate their strength and discipline.
9. Boat Racing
Traditional Tet games in Vietnam
Boat racing reflects Vietnam’s deep connection to rivers and agricultural life. Among large scale Tet games, it is one of the most spectacular. Teams row long boats in perfect synchronization. Dragon boats are beautifully decorated with vibrant red and yellow colors symbolizing luck and strength. Participants wear matching uniforms inspired by traditional warrior outfits.
The rhythm of paddles hitting the water and the cheers from both riverbanks create a breathtaking atmosphere. It is not just a race but a celebration of teamwork under a heritage theme.
10. Bai Choi
Traditional Tet games in Vietnam
‘Bài chòi’ is more than a game. It is a unique cultural performance from Central Vietnam that blends music, poetry, and playing cards. Players sit in small huts while a performer sings humorous and meaningful verses that relate to daily life, work, and festivals. The lyrics are witty and often playful, making the atmosphere lively and joyful. Traditional musical instruments accompany the singing, creating a vibrant soundscape.
I love how ‘Bài chòi’ feels both intimate and festive at the same time. It is not just about winning. It is about uncovering daily stories of our ancestors and celebrating culture. I’ve never truly taken part in it as a player because there’s many things I need to learn to play it well. However, older generations from my family love it so much and perhaps I’ll go for it for once to truly immerse into the heritage of our ancestors in Tet festival.
Step into Local Life at Vietnam Festivals with Jackfruit Adventure
Set aside the peaceful image of Vietnam for a moment and discover its vibrant, energetic festival atmosphere during Tet. Vietnam is more than serene rice fields and quiet temples. During Lunar New Year, the streets come alive with color, laughter, music, and community spirit. The bustling energy is contagious once you truly immerse yourself in it. Tet games play a central role in this celebration, adding excitement alongside traditional customs that welcome the new year.
At Jackfruit Adventure, we go beyond the usual city attractions. We bring you closer to authentic local life through meaningful experiences in the countryside, hidden alleys, and lively backstreets. Join our Saigon city tours to explore lesser known corners of Ho Chi Minh City and witness the unique cultural traditions that happen within local communities’ daily life.
